what we do

SORBA supports regional efforts and our local trail champions. By providing the tools to be effective trail stewards, SORBA provides the opportunities for everyone to get outside and enjoy the trails we all enjoy. And it is through these regional efforts, shared learning, and financial support that the Southeast is on the forefront of sustainable trails and a leader in trail advocacy and stewardship.

See a list of our programs below. And if you want to get involved to support trails on a regional level get in touch!

The SORBA Summit, held in the Spring, is a multi-day opportunity for all trail supporters to come together for educational and networking opportunities. We feature trail specific training like chainsaw certification and crew leader training, as well as many other breakout sessions, a Board of Directors Meeting, Socials and Group Rides. We encourage everyone to attend, not just SORBA members.

The Fall Meeting is a one-day event, geared towards our SORBA chapter leaders. At our fall meeting we have a Board of Directors meeting and state work sessions where chapter leaders can come together to discuss the direction of SORBA and the needs for each state.

For both the Summit and Fall meeting we offer a Scholarship Program for those who do not have the means to attend and otherwise. For more information about the Summit and Fall Meetings check out our events page. And to apply for a scholarship, contact us for more information.

SORBA membership is more than just a list of names—it’s a unified support system that empowers our chapters to build, ride, and protect the trail systems that bring our communities together. Through our SORBA app, powered by Hivepass, we manage member sign-ups, renewals, reporting through a streamlined system, giving chapters real-time access to member data, reducing administrative burden and providing value to their members. In addition to membership, the SORBA app can help chapters raise money through donations, create and market events, and communicate with their membership directly. To learn more about membership, check out our Membership FAQ.

Running a trail organization takes more than just passion—it requires structure, accountability, and the right tools. And with the overwhelming majority of our chapters being run by volunteers, most leaders do not have the time or the background to answer all the questions that may arise. SORBA provides our chapters with the technical support and nonprofit compliance backbone they need to operate effectively and focus on their mission.

We offer hands-on guidance with everything from board governance and budgeting to liability coverage and IRS filing support. Chapters operate under SORBA’s 501(c)(3) status, giving them the benefits of non profit designation without the paperwork or cost.

Whether you’re troubleshooting QuickBooks, drafting bylaws, creating land manager agreements, or applying for a grant, our team is here to help your chapter run smoothly and sustainably.

It may not be flashy, but insurance is one of the most important tools we provide to support trail stewardship across the Southeast. SORBA offers general liability insurance that covers all chapters and volunteers during trail construction, maintenance work, and organized group rides.

By pooling our coverage across the entire SORBA network, we’re able to keep costs reasonable—making high-quality insurance accessible even for smaller chapters. It’s one of the behind-the-scenes ways we help keep trail work safe, legal, and moving forward.

Every year, we recognize one outstanding volunteer from each of our eight SORBA states—Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. These are the folks who go above and beyond, showing up for their trails, their chapters, and their communities.

Nominated by their peers and selected for their dedication, leadership, and impact, each Volunteer of the Year is honored at our annual banquet and awarded a $500 grant for their local chapter. It’s our way of saying thank you to the individuals who keep the wheels turning and the trails thriving.

At SORBA, we believe better trails start with better training. We offer hands-on learning opportunities designed to help volunteers, chapter leaders, and land managers steward trail systems with confidence and care.

Our programs include Trail Crew Leader Training, Chainsaw Certification, Trail Assessment workshops, and more. Participants learn how to identify and evaluate problem areas on trail networks, recommend sustainable solutions, and manage crews safely and effectively. Many of these trainings also offer skill-based certifications that help volunteers grow into leadership roles.

Whether you’re new to trail work or looking to sharpen your skills, SORBA’s training programs are built to raise the standard of trail stewardship across the Southeast.

SORBA works alongside our chapters to build strong, professional relationships with land managers at the local, state, and federal levels. From drafting formal agreements to navigating complex land use policies, we help chapters engage effectively with public agencies to ensure access and long-term stewardship.

We also support chapters in larger planning efforts—like National Forest management plans, State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plans (SCORPs), and legislative initiatives that impact trail access.

Through national partnerships with organizations like Outdoor Alliance and IMBA, we amplify our collective voice to protect and expand mountain biking opportunities—not just across the Southeast, but nationwide. When we work together, we move trails forward.

Our SORBA Stories Podcast is the only podcast powered by y’all. Thanks to our members, we can share the people and the places that make mountain biking in the southeast an incredible experience. In each episode, we feature individuals from across the region to tell their stories centered around the trails they love. We hope you enjoy the ride!

SORBA Sessions are our live support webinar trainings where we feature topics relevant to chapter education, often led by fellow chapter leaders, showcasing and inspiring others with their success and insight. Topics such as financial best practices, volunteer tracking and recognition, and nonprofit management are shared live and recorded for chapters to reference.